Ride and Read: University of Windsor library gets new study bikes

The University of Windsor'sLeddyLibrary is one of the first academic libraries in Canada to offer students a chance to ride while they read.

The library is now home tothree new exercise study-bikes that allow students to study or type on a laptop while they pedal.

"When they come to the library, if they're here for a prolonged period of time, after a while the students bodies might be getting sore," said Sarah Woodruff, associate professor ofKinesiology at the university. "They need to get up andmove around, so this just gives them the option to do something while they are studying."

The idea came from information services librarian Sharon Munro, who read about the success of these types of bikes in a magazine article.

"I thought it sounded like a really good idea for us to try, too," said Munro. "It's really exciting to see these bikes actually here."

The idea fits with the library's mandate to provide a "healthy, stimulating and innovative learning environment," Munro said.

The bikes are equipped with a desk,odometerand resistance bands forbicepcurls.

"It's actually amazing," said student Paige Coyne,as she tried the bike out. "Ididn't think it would be that comfortable butthe seatis super comfy."

Although the bikes are not ideal for all types of studying or work, said Woodruff, they provide relief from a sedentarystate.

"Getting up and moving at least once an hour is a good idea,we don't want you sitting in the same position," she said.

The three bikes are on the main floor of the library, and the university hopes to get more in the future.